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HSK 2.0 Level 3+ HSK 3.0 Level 3+ 6 min read

先, 然后, 最后

Explain routines, instructions, and plans with clear sequencing.

Pattern

先..., 然后..., 最后...

Use sequence words to organize steps in order.

我们先买票。

When to use 先, 然后, 最后

先 marks what happens first. 然后 moves to the next step. 最后 closes the sequence.

先注册，然后登录。

Register first, then log in.

最后提交表格。

Finally, submit the form.

我先复习，然后做练习。

I review first, then do exercises.

最后，我们完成了项目。

Finally, we completed the project.

Common traps

  • Do not use 然后 for cause; it only orders events.
  • 最后 is for the final step, not just a later step.
  • Keep sequence clauses short if the process is new.

Targeted drill

Practice this exact pattern before moving on.

先注册， 登录

Missing grammar piece
Meanings
then; after that